“Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.” Romans 12:12 (NLT)
Observant or Serving
Look closely. Notice anything out of place in my peaceful bird feeding world? Yes! An intruder! As I watched out the window, I was amazed at how focused and in tune with all the birds’ movements he was. And all the while, they had no idea danger was near! Clearly, he had only one thing on his mind: to attack and consume one of my unsuspecting bird friends.
You know, there’s a prowler after us, too. He’s observant. Our words and actions are familiar to him. Patient, he waits for the opportune time to pounce and disrupt our peace. Unfortunately, we also often fail to recognize his presence. He likes it that way. It makes us easy to prey upon.
“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith.” 1 Peter 5:8-9a (NLT)
We’re living in challenging times, exactly the kind a predator enjoys! Now more than ever, we must be extra vigilant and on the look out. Alone, we’re readily vulnerable to his temptings and can be easily consumed, satisfying the enemy’s hunger for more. We must ask God to help us control our words, monitor our minds, think before we act, and to protect those weak spots (I) we each have from being targeted. Luckily, after discovering the trespasser, the bird restaurant didn’t stay open long. Just as I ran off this unwanted neighborhood cat from his hidden hunting place before he was able to have lunch, we can deter the stalking devil before he devours us. God has given us everything we need for the fight!
“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all the strategies of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11(NLT)
We spend a lot of our time distracted, watching our phones, TV, other people, our bank accounts, and so much more. Let’s not forget to be alert to the one who lurks in the midst of it all. God has provided a defense so that we can stand firm and be strong in our faith, be a light in the devil’s darkness revealing his hiding places, and victoriously compel him on his way.
“Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of Spirit, which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:13-17 (NLT)
May we remain ready for battle, always observant instead of becoming the next “serving” on the enemy’s menu!
Teaming up with http://www.fiveminutefriday.com and #write28days at http://www.anitaojeda.com writing to the prompt “Observant”. Your presence here is a blessing to me. I always pray you leave encouraged. God bless and stay well!
This is a good reminder of the importance of alertness, Cindy — spiritually and in all ways. Thanks for sharing.
A reminder I need as I can easily get distracted these days! Thank you for stopping in Jeannie!
I love the thought you put into your writing. I could see the danger lurking and the birds in total ambivalence. How often our minds are in danger of being attacted and we are unaware.
Beyond the message I love your gentle giant style of writing. Powerful truths told in a gentle manner. ❤️
Jane, this is one of the kindest comments I’ve ever received! You’ll never know the impact your words have had on my heart. You have blessed me more than you know. Thank you so much!
Nice post Cindy. I enjoyed how you compared the prowling cat to our enemy, Satan. Thank you for this reminder “We must ask God to help us control our words, monitor our minds, think before we act, and to protect those weak spots.” So true. Have a blessed weekend.
Oh boy Doreen! I need that reminder so often! My mind whirls and twirls constantly! How kind of you to take your time to comment. I truly appreciate it!
Cindy, What a great analogy. I think you are spot on that Satan is just as stealth as the neighborhood cat in targeting unsuspecting Christians. What a good reminder to remember to put on the armor of God.
I think it’s easy to forget he’s lurking about until he has a hold on us! Thank you Wendy for stopping in and taking time to comment. I really am blessed by it!